Packaging company Crown Food Europe has added a corned beef tin manufacturing line to its facility in Périgueux, France due to growing worldwide demand for the processed meat.
Production of corned beef cans more than doubled from 10 million units in 2013 to nearly 25 million units in 2016.
"Global meat consumption is projected to increase by more than four percent per person over the next ten years thanks to more prosperous economies and expanding populations," commented Olivier Aubry, business development and marketing director.
"Our new line in Périgueux will add considerable value for our customers."
The line came into service in December 2016, and has the capacity to produce 50 million 7oz and 12oz tins per year, the company said in a statement.
The tell-tale, tapered trapezoid shape of the corned beef can, with its tongue opening, was first used in 1875.
However, the antiquated process which gives the tin its iconic shape poses a challenge for corned beef manufacturers trying to keep up with market demand, the company said.
The newly-opened line in Crown Food Europe's French facility uses a totally new forming process to mould the welded can and shape the tongue, making it easier to open.
The metal used in the cans is 100% recyclable, and can be reused multiple times, the company added.
© 2017 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by Karen Henderson. To subscribe to ESM: The European Supermarket Magazine, click here.
